"An Act exempting certain foreign pleasure craft from the mandatory pilotage requirement.."

CSHB 251 authorizes access to Alaskan waters by a foreign registered pleasure craft with out Pilotage when the vessel exceed 20 meters in overall length, but is less than 53 meters in overall length. To travel in Alaskan waters, these pleasure craft must comply with certain state requirements.

For these foreign pleasure craft to enter Alaskan waters, a Marine Pilot will be scheduled to join the vessel through a licensed Alaskan agent. The Marine Pilot will travel with that vessel to its first port of call. While in Alaskan waters, the vessel may further be required to take a Marine Pilot when navigating certain waterways. Before departing Alaska the crew will notify the agent with the details of departure. Furthermore, the agent will ensure their obligations are met.

A recent Legislative Budget and Audit Committee audit report supports these changes. This legislative audit (#08-20015-02 November 1, 2002) states under Recommendation No. 4, "The Board of Marine Pilots should seek statutory authority to allow the board the discretion to grant waivers of pilotage requirements to large pleasure craft."

The intent of CSHB 251 is to accomplish recommendations identified in the Audit and provide Alaskan Maritime communities with increased tourism opportunities.

Last Updated: 04/30/2003

# # #